The Washington State University Board of Regents has approved the schematic for a new WSU visitor center, paving the way for the $2.5 million dollar facility to be built this year.

WSU officials say construction will begin within the next two weeks to ensure the center is complete by homecoming at the end of September.

The center, located at the intersection of Main and Spring streets, includes a 4,000-square-foot glass pavilion flanked by two-story-tall “WSU” letters on the left side and a circular steel tower on the right, which will glow in a crimson color at night. The glass pavilion will feature interactive displays of student projects and research, notable figures, facts about the university and athletic achievements. Officials say it also will be an ideal place for parties or receptions.

A rain garden will be planted on the right side of the steel tower and would be watered by runoff from the pavilion’s slanted roof.

The project will be paid for with proceeds from the sale of the former WSU visitor’s center, cash on hand in the university’s real estate account, and donations.